Brighton Dyslexia Advocate Wins National Award for Championing Neurodiversity

Brighton tutor wins recognition for neurodiversity work

A Brighton-based education advocate has been honoured with a national award for her work promoting neurodiversity in schools and universities. Charlotte Austwick, a tutor, explorer and PhD researcher, received the Judges' Special Recognition Trailblazer Award at the Dyslexia Awards 2026, which took place on 17 October at the Mercure Hotel in Telford.

The award recognises her patient, understanding approach to supporting learners with dyslexia and her role as what the judges described as "a powerful voice for the dyslexia community." Her work focuses on promoting neurodiversity in higher education settings and supporting learners as a SEND tutor.

Local impact on education and learners

Austwick's recognition comes as neurodiversity becomes an increasingly important focus in schools across Brighton and Hove. Her work with individual learners and her research as a PhD candidate have contributed to shifting perceptions around dyslexia and neurodivergence.

She was also a top 10 finalist in the SEND category at this year's National Tutoring Awards, further highlighting the quality of her contribution to education locally.

Award acceptance and future plans

Reflecting on the honour, Austwick said: "This recognition is not mine alone and represents a community of people who have supported my journey thus far. To all of them and to the Dyslexia Awards, I would like to say thank you."

She has expressed her commitment to continuing her work and looks forward to "the chapters ahead," focusing on changing perceptions of dyslexia and neurodivergence in educational settings.

The Dyslexia Awards were founded ten years ago by Elizabeth Wilkinson MBE and celebrate the achievements of individuals with dyslexia working across various fields.

Source: read the full story